Rosemary and lavender. Sweet looks and soft kisses. These two beautiful people are something incredibly special. This Champoeg State Park wedding was a day that will be remembered for years and years to come, and not just by Shana and Garrett.

Shana planned this wedding almost completely by herself! She even created and put together her own stunning bouquet and floral arrangements! This girl has some serious talent. I was blown away by all of the beautifully rustic, yet elegant, reception details that filled my nose of fresh lavender and rosemary.

How We Met

I met Shana and Garrett through a couples’ session they booked with me a year ago. We went up to Silverfalls one brisk, foggy morning in October. We got to run around this gorgeous setting with their sweet pups! Getting to know them, I knew we would become fast friends. They are some of the sweetest, loving people I have had to pleasure to meet. Little did I know, Garrett was planning on proposing shortly after that session! So I was absolutely thrilled when they contacted me to now shoot their wedding!

Teased with Rain

This true Oregon day teased us with bursts of sunshine in between rain drops at this Champoeg State Park wedding! But that didn’t deter anyone’s spirits of pure joy. They were the most go with the flow kind of people. To quote the groom, “We invited the clouds but we asked them not to cry.” I can’t say that I didn’t! Especially during the emotional father/daughter first look. Or when the officiant spoke to the guests before the ceremony. He asked that when the bride and groom say “I do” that they as well would all in unison say “we do”. This to symbolize, as their closest friends and family, the love and support they have and will show to this beautiful couple.

A Precious Moment

Another precious moment came as a surprise during the reception. A close friend of theirs picked up his guitar causing everyone else to pick up their tissues. He had written a special song just for them. He used their own words they had written on their wedding website about their story and their love for each other. It was by far one of the most sincere and heartfelt moments I’ve witnessed at a wedding yet.

It was truly hard to pick a favorite moment of this Champoeg State Park wedding! God is so ever present in this couple. You could literally feel a calming peace and pure joy throughout their day. There truly was nothing but love surrounding this place.I even found myself melting at the way Garrett gently walked along Shana’s side through the reception, greeting and hugging their guests. It reminded me of a lovey high school romance, yet with all the strength and power of God leading them in life. Blessings to you both, sweet friends. May you have many adventures in your lives together.

Love all this beauty of Oregon and sentimental wedding day moments? Take a look at Kayla and Wesley’s wedding at his family’s gorgeous private property with a view that will take your breath away!

https://joniloraine.me/2019/12/27/kayla-wesley-gates-oregon-wedding/